Coaching sessions are based on three areas of communication: listening, direct and respectful language, and questioning. Coach training programs provide specific tools and techniques for effective communication.
When listening, a natural tendency is to compare what is being said to personal experiences or to think about what to say in reply rather than fully listen. As a coach, because the process is all about the client, specific listening techniques enhance the quality and depth of the listening and empower the client to fully explore and openly share.
Direct, respectful language is a goal for most people. While many consider themselves to be good communicators, at the same time many also consider others to be poor communicators. In the United States, 70% of the population is primarily passive and 30% is primarily aggressive in their communication style. Assertive communication, the use of direct and respectful language, is a learned skill taught in coach training programs. Specific language and approach does influence interactions.
Questioning is an important responsibility of coaches. What, how, and when to ask specific questions is a learned skill. In good training programs, coaches discuss types of questions and learn how to formulate effective questions. Coaches practice coaching while training using questionnaires so they have the opportunity to experience how questions impact the process.
Effective communication empowers exploration and strategizing.
